Whyalla police operations manager Senior Sergeant Steve Sims said 61 per cent of the clamping and impounds were due to driving under the influence of alcohol.

He said 22 per cent were a result of misuse and the remainder were for dangerous driving and being involved in a police pursuit.

"We will continue to crack down on drivers who are misusing their cars," Senior Sergeant Sims said.

"Members of the public should call the police station if they observe someone driving in an illegal manner or are suspicious that a driver could be drunk.

"It is also important that drivers obey the speed limits and are responsible while on the road.

"Driving under the influence of alcohol is a big problem and we urge drivers to take a cab if drinking or have a designated driver."

Statistics released last week revealed that more than 4200 drivers have had their cars impounded or clamped last year under South Australia's anti-hoon laws.

Police Minister, Michael Wright, said the results are a credit to the South Australian police force, which clearly takes a zero tolerance approach to reckless road use.

"I'd like to commend police for their efforts in targeting this type of irresponsible and down right dangerous behaviour and for confiscating so many vehicles in the process," Mr Wright said.

"My warning to those who insist on driving like hoons, is that it's going to get an awful lot tougher from here on in.

"South Australia will soon have the toughest penalties in the country to deal with the sort of anti-social behaviour that besieges many neighbourhoods.

"These idiots threaten people's lives with their deadly anti-social antics and we are hitting them where it hurts most by taking their pride and joy off the road."

Mr Wright said hoon driving isn't just anti-social behaviour, "it's reckless, foolish and it puts people's lives at serious risk".

He said under changes to commence later this year, the period of vehicle impounding and clamping by police will increase from seven to 28 days.